A federal inquiry examines the worsening financial state of Australian local governments, with Hunter councils highlighting unsustainable costs from climate change, tourism, and state mandates. Will it lead to real change?
Less than 5% of Cessnock households responded to a survey on a proposed 39.9% rate increase, with 82% opposed. Council faces a crucial vote amid claims of survey bias and cost-of-living concerns. Read the full story.
Newcastle ratepayers demand answers as council CEO's $608k package exceeds the Premier's pay. Former councillor reveals how Hunter coal mines triggered a 'relativity' salary spiral across local government.
Lake Macquarie City Council reveals a draft $80 million capital works plan for 2026-27, with over half earmarked for its fire-damaged Speers Point administration building. Discover the community projects set to benefit.
WA's first Local Government Inspector, Tony Brown, now has full powers to oversee councils, issue fines up to $24,000, and recommend suspensions. The reforms aim to stamp out poor conduct.
From Monday, all Australian families can access at least three days of subsidised childcare weekly, a major reform set to benefit 100,000 families and help parents return to work.
Annual reports show two Illawarra council CEOs received higher pay packets than Premier Chris Minns. Explore the figures and the reasons behind the salaries.
A Port Stephens canoe club's missing trailer, thought stolen for scrap, was discovered impounded by council rangers. Read how a mix-up over registration led to the costly confusion.
Wollongong and Shellharbour councils announce altered bin collection schedules over Christmas. Find out your new collection days and extra recycling services.
NSW Premier Chris Minns recalls parliament to push through sweeping firearm reforms and bans on terrorist symbols following the Bondi Beach mass shooting. The legislation faces political opposition.
Hunter MP Dan Repacholi opposes new gun laws, splitting with PM Albanese after the Bondi massacre. The Olympian-turned-politician argues changes unfairly target responsible owners.
PM Anthony Albanese reveals a major legislative package targeting hate speech, online extremism, and social division. Learn the key changes and their impact.
The NSW government announces a major financial support package for victims of the Bondi Beach mass shooting. Details on the $4.5 million in aid and upcoming gun law reforms.
Gun ownership in the Illawarra region has grown to 27,729 registered firearms. Premier Chris Minns pledges the toughest laws in Australia following the Bondi Beach terror attack.
Newcastle councillors are urging the NSW government to fund a major upgrade of public toilets, citing high costs and the need for accessibility. A state inquiry backed their call.
Naveed Akram, 24, has emerged from a coma, allowing counter-terror police their first chance to question him over the Bondi Beach shooting that killed 15. The nation mourns its deadliest anti-Semitic attack.
Football South Coast announces sweeping competition reforms, including a player points system and promotion/relegation, to combat high squad turnover and boost local talent. Read the full plan here.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese pushes for stricter gun laws, including ownership limits and citizenship requirements, following the Bondi tragedy. Leaders to update National Firearms Agreement.
Newcastle councillors have deferred a major plan to revitalise Civic Park and surrounds, citing a $70 million price tag and more pressing community priorities like safer streets and drainage.
Code of conduct complaints at Newcastle City Council have doubled in two years, costing ratepayers over $62,000. Nine complaints were lodged, with four still pending. Read the full report.
As thousands of financial advisers exit the industry, expert Nick Bruining warns the purge won't automatically remove all bad actors. Discover what this means for your financial advice and future.
East Fremantle councillors have unanimously voted to receive superannuation payments, backdated to the October elections. The move aligns the Town with larger councils.
Townsville City Council is recruiting 30 new staff in a major 'back to basics' drive to improve core services like parks, roads, and waste. Mayor Troy Thompson leads the overhaul.
Western Australia's Parliament has passed landmark IVF legislation, expanding access to single women and LGBTQ+ couples. The reforms modernise fertility laws for WA families.
WA Premier Roger Cook recalls Parliament for an extra day to push through key bills on housing and criminal law. Find out which laws are being fast-tracked.
Cottesloe councillor Katy Mason has resigned and is moving to Nedlands. She is considering running in the upcoming Nedlands council election. Read the full story.
The WACA's CEO has formally requested a 10-year exemption from council rates, worth an estimated $2.5 million, to aid the historic ground's financial future. Read the full story.
Western Australia is set to introduce crucial reforms to Working With Children Checks, ensuring a national 'banned in one, banned in all' approach. Read the latest on this critical child safety legislation.
Federal government accelerates controversial land clearing regulations amid concerns farmers would clear vegetation before new laws take effect. No transition period provided.
The ACT government is overhauling key building regulations to speed up construction and save homeowners money. Learn how these changes will affect Canberra's property market.